Facing our Heuristic Limits: Expanding the Terminology for Types of Positive Face

Abstract

This article adds to Lim and Bowers’ (1991) framework featuring two types of positive face: competence and fellowship face. We propose the addition of three types of positive face: character, social, and status face. We differentiate between each new type of face by examining: (a) protective strategies adopted, (b) types of face threats, (c) corrective strategies, and (d) pejorative labels threatening/attacking each type of face. The heuristic value for the positive face terms proposed is also explored through re-visiting a scholarly article in which positive face is analyzed. Data presented in that article are examined through the lens of the three proposed positive face terms. Finally, broader implications of theorizing are discussed, particularly with respect to politeness.

Keywords:

• Character
• Conflict
• Dehumanization
• Dignity
• Face Threats
• Facework
• Politeness

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to express appreciation to Dr. Susan Opt for her insightful feedback on a previous version of this article and the two anonymous reviewers for their kind and constructive feedback.